Ever since I was a little girl, the Lion King has always been my favorite movie. I’ve probably seen it over 500 times in my life, and I’ve been able to recite every line and song lyric since I was about seven years old, often times to the annoyance of my family and friends. So it comes to no surprise that I am using a Lion King metaphor to tell my story.
It almost seems ridiculous to even call it my story. Taking ownership over the miraculous work that the Lord does in my life every single day seems pretty arrogant.
In any case, we all know the story. Simba wakes up his dad at the crack of dawn and they ascend Pride Rock for a sunrise overlook of their kingdom. They sit and admire everything before them, as Mufasa begins imparting wisdom on Simba. Before long, Simba, being the rambunctious and curious child that he is, questions his dad about “that dark shadowy place.”
Almost immediately, Mufasa’s tone changed to one of direct and firm instruction. He tells Simba that the area in question is “beyond our borders” and is strictly forbidden. It is clear that Mufasa is instructing his son in this manner for his benefit and protection. He knows better than Simba. He knows the danger that lies in wait at the elephant graveyard.
But Simba is a child. He thinks he knows better than his father. After a brush with Scar, who dangles the alluring mystery of the elephant graveyard infront of him, and tempts him with lies about adventure…Simba takes the leap.
Does this sound familiar?
God is a good Father, a loving Father…He knows what is best for us, and instructs us as such. He never enjoys seeing us in danger or in pain.
The devil on the other hand? He’s always lying in the shadows, waiting to tempt us, tell us “it’s not that bad…,” etc.
But how many times do we run out to the elephant graveyard anyway? Sin on the surface seems so alluring, so enticing…that’s just how the devil likes it. And regardless of the instruction we receive from God about “fleeing from temptation,” we disregard the loving direction from the Father, and run off to the elephant graveyard.
And sometimes, our elephant graveyard is wrapped up in shame. Once we disobey, and walk away from God, we add insult to injury, and let the enemy beat us up even further…believing the lie that we can’t share with our community, our family, or our friends. That’s a lie. Straight from the pit of hell. Let’s send it back where it belongs.
